In it, Francis said soccer teaches three lessons that can promote peace and solidarity: the need to train and work hard to reach goals, the importance of fair play and teamwork, and the need to respect and honor opponents.

He said: "To win, one must overcome individualism, selfishness, all forms of racism, intolerance and manipulation of people." He said being "greedy" in football, as in life, is an obstacle.

"Let nobody turn their back on society and feel excluded!" he said. "No to segregation! No to racism!"

- The Associated Press

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